It Is Our Duty to Give

It Is Our Duty to Give

Ramadan is the month of worship, good deeds, and asking forgiveness from the Almighty. As the Prophet (pbuh) says: “Whoever fasts during Ramadan out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven” (Bukhari). As Muslims, it is obligatory on us to provide to our less fortunate ones.

Due to the poor economic conditions of many places in the world, Ramadan can be a burden for families who are already struggling. There are those who have been displaced by war, starving through a famine, and living without homes due to natural disasters. It is against this backdrop that Zakat Foundation of America (ZF) doubles its humanitarian relief during the holiest time of the year to feed the hungry, needy, and orphans.

In Jordan, for example, many people are facing a shortage of food due to the influx of refugees from neighboring countries. This Ramadan, ZF has so far donated over 1,000 food packages and 9,000 meals. In addition, ZF has also provided brand new Eid gifts to orphans, as well as stipends for further support these children in need. During one of the distributions in Al-Jafar city, which is 300 km south of Amman, a 10-year-old approached me. He said, “When I get such items, I become so happy.” Later on, I found out that his father passed away and he is the youngest of 12 siblings in his household.

Another experience I remember came after distributing meals in Amman. Two young women were lying on the floor after Maghrib prayer. The only food they had between them was a little dried piece of bread. Luckily, we had meals leftover from the food distribution. We gave it to them and I will never forget their joy. It is moments like these that define Ramadan for me and the crucial work that ZF does around the world. It is a constant reminder that what is little to some people is enormous to others. These experiences make me realize how blessed I am, and because of these blessings I have a responsibility to come to the aid of humanity.